Not a disease and not aphids. Did you see any aphids on the leaves?
Sawfly larva, slugs, and a number of other thingys do that kind of damage and observation will eventually reveal what that is.
Before doing anything to "control" what ever this might be properly identify what is causing the problem. Decide if that problem really needs to be "controlled".
Once the real cause is identified then the least toxic means of control can be applied.
Evaluate what you did. Did that do what you wanted it to do? Was it successful in controlling what the problem was?
Return to step one.

Plants of the laurel family are often bothered by shot-hole fungus. You might want to take some samples to your local extension office for examination.

Here is a link that might be useful: